A rescue canine named Mac N Cheese gives a new definition of being an underdog.
The little darling had a rough life before becoming the star of this year’s Oscar Awards. According to Chad Atkins, co-founder and executive director of Paw Works, Mac N Cheese and her siblings, Hot Dish and Casserole, were dumped in a box outside the Avenal Shelter. He said 90% of the animals under their care come from the Central Valley. Unfortunately, this area does not have the same veterinary care and shelter systems access, so most of their pets come from here.
As soon as Mac N Cheese and her family arrived at the Avenal Animal Shelter, Paw Works intervened. Their rescuers provided them with health exams and a hope of finding a new family.
Unfortunately, Mac N Cheese was the only one that failed to get adopted. But this year’s Oscars season, she became the lucky pup chosen for the program highlight during the Betty White tribute – thanks to Hollywood actress Jamie Lee Curtis.
The Good Dog Animals production company was supposed to provide a canine for the significant segment. But Lee Curtis insisted it had to be a rescue pup because the late actress Betty White was known for being an animal rescue advocate. Good Dog Animals immediately contacted Paw Works to find a puppy that would fit the bill. Atkins sent them photos and information about their adoptable puppies, and Lee Curtis handpicked Mac N Cheese out of the roster.
Lee Curtis also took it upon herself to give Paw Works a shout-out during the In Memoriam segment for the late Betty White. Atkins expressed his appreciation and profusely thanked the actress for the gesture.
For the rest of the evening, Atkins held on to Mac N Cheese and conversed with animal-loving celebrities in attendance. While many expressed interest in adopting the little show-stopper, Grease star John Travolta became utterly obsessed with her.
Travolta got in touch with Atkins the following day about the adoption process. It wasn’t long before he packed up Mac N Cheese’s stuff and drove her to her new home. He even photographed the little canine with Travolta and his son Ben. The actor reposted this proudly on his social media account.
Through Mac N Cheese’s exposure, Atkins hopes this would open more possibilities for shelter pets. Atkins says he wants people to be more aware of pet overpopulation through spaying, neutering, and vaccination. He highlighted the importance of prevention and education in animal care. He also encouraged people to follow their passions to help make the world a better place.
Learn more about Paw Works’ nonprofit veterinary hospitals and volunteer programs on its official website.
Source: pawworks.org / John Travolta – Instagram